Chrysler Building

Completed in 1930, this gleaming building pays homage to the automobile. Architect William Van Alen outfitted the main tower with colossal radiator-cap eagle "cargoyles" and a brickwork relief sculpture of racing cars complete with chrome hubcaps. A needle-sharp stainless-steel spire was added to the blueprint so the finished product would be taller than 40 Wall Street, which was under construction at the same time.

Completed in 1930, this gleaming building pays homage to the automobile. Architect William Van Alen outfitted the main tower with colossal radiator-cap eagle "cargoyles" and a brickwork relief sculpture of racing cars complete with chrome hubcaps. A needle-sharp stainless-steel spire was added to the blueprint so the finished product would be taller than 40 Wall Street, which was under construction at the same time.

Categories

Features

Attractions

Historic Sites & LandmarksBuildings & Skyscrapers

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do at the Chrysler Building?There’s no observation deck, but you can explore the lobby and admire its superb art deco interior. For a view of the building’s stunning exterior, look northeast from the Empire State Building Observatory or southeast from the Top of the Rock.

When are the best times to visit?The lobby is only open on weekdays. To avoid the rush of office workers heading to and from their jobs, try going around 10:30–11am, or between 2 and 4pm.

How do I get tickets?You don’t need tickets. You can access the lobby when it’s open, and it’s free.

Anything interesting I should know about the lobby?The mural on the ceiling, by artist Edward Turnbull, is entitled Transport and Human Endeavor. It depicts the manufacturing and engineering marvels of its age. Measuring 78 by 100 feet, it was the largest indoor mural in the world when it was completed.

Features

Attractions

Historic Sites & LandmarksBuildings & Skyscrapers

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do at the Chrysler Building?There’s no observation deck, but you can explore the lobby and admire its superb art deco interior. For a view of the building’s stunning exterior, look northeast from the Empire State Building Observatory or southeast from the Top of the Rock.

When are the best times to visit?The lobby is only open on weekdays. To avoid the rush of office workers heading to and from their jobs, try going around 10:30–11am, or between 2 and 4pm.

How do I get tickets?You don’t need tickets. You can access the lobby when it’s open, and it’s free.

Anything interesting I should know about the lobby?The mural on the ceiling, by artist Edward Turnbull, is entitled Transport and Human Endeavor. It depicts the manufacturing and engineering marvels of its age. Measuring 78 by 100 feet, it was the largest indoor mural in the world when it was completed.